But more than just name alignment, the STS gets Cadillac's new edgy design language, albeit a much more mature execution, as witnessed at its introduction during the New York International Auto Show in Manhattan's Jacob Javits convention center. After its introduction, on the same stage as Saab's controversial new 9-7 sport utility by the way, I took the opportunity to poke around inside. Very nice Cadillac! After disappointing interior executions in both the CTS and new SRX, it looks as if GM is set to pull off a true premium quality cabin. The leather in the prototype felt rich and supple, the wood is beautifully finished and authentic aluminum trim... well, authentic.
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| The STS gets Cadillac's edgy new design language, albeit a much more mature execution. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Sitting in the driver's seat, there's plenty of room for larger individuals - a Cadillac prerequisite. Within the nicely detailed center stack nothing less than an 8-inch touch-screen LCD display, for articulating the audio/visual system, MP3 player, and optional navigation. The heated and air conditioned front seats feature massage action, if ordered, for ultimate comfort. Adding to the mix is the expected dual automatic climate control as well as the addition of a heated steering wheel. With GM being one of the forerunners of head up display (HUD) in cars, the new STS features the technology which projects some primary and often used ancillary readouts on the lower half of the windshield to maximize safety. Lastly, Cadillac will fit the STS with a keyless operation system simply dubbed Keyless Access - an option becoming commonplace among its competitors.
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| If the production STS is anything like the prototype, Cadillac should be able to win over picky European buyers across the Atlantic. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
Other technological features will include Driver Shift Control, StabiliTrak Stability Enhancement System, a standard Bose audio system with CD player, Adaptive Remote Start, and Panic Brake Assist.
Also, expect the option of memory personalization, an upgraded Bose 5.1 Studio Surround System with 15 speakers, GM's innovative Magnetic Ride Control suspension system, Adaptive Cruise Control with four-color reconfigureable head-up display, XM Satellite radio, heated and ventilated seats, 18-inch polished alloy wheels, and DVD Navigation.
My enthusiasm for the STS is a sure sign that it made an impact on me, at least during the few minutes I was able to sit in the driver's seat at the NYIAS. If Cadillac can pull off the production STS as well as it has this prototype, it will go a long way to impressing picky European buyers. Say what? It's true, General Motors has long planned to sell its distinctively American luxury cars and SUVs to those across the Atlantic, and the STS will be an important entry into Cadillac's very full lineup.
"Our long-term goal for Cadillac is to become the Standard of the World once again," said Mark LaNeve, general manager for Cadillac. "In order to succeed globally, we have to build vehicles that have outstanding performance, exceptional quality and reliability, and meet the demands of the most discerning car buyers. "The STS represents the latest step in that direction."